How a DUI Affects Employment in Prince George’s County

While a DUI charge itself would not impact a person’s employment much, a conviction could lead to a criminal record which an employer could find. If you are wondering how a DUI effects employment in Prince George’s County, you could consult a criminal defense attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer may be able to help you avoid a conviction or understand how a court’s ruling may impact your life if a conviction is not avoidable.

Potential Employment Consequences of a DUI

Individuals seeking to work in certain positions, which may include government jobs and the military, require clearances. An individual in the military charged with DUI could be kicked out by virtue of the charge. While the case may be dismissed and the person could be exonerated, a military tribunal and review may look at the evidence, make their own independent decision notwithstanding what the judge and court of Maryland did, and order their removal. People could suffer consequences simply by being charged and even more so if they are convicted.

If someone is already employed, getting a DUI conviction could them in trouble if they are required to disclose it and they do not. If driving is part of their job and if it is of a sensitive nature where the employer may not want anyone with any kind of record at all, it could cause issues for the employee.

How Prospective Employers May React to a Court Ruling

Prospective employers typically look at the fitness of any candidate. If they have to decide between two candidates in Prince George’s County who are equal in every way and one has a DUI while the other one does not, the candidate with the DUI may be affected by losing the opportunity. While a conviction may not destroy someone’s life, individuals working as CDL truck drivers may face significant hurdles. The workplace is a competitive field. Individuals typically look for the best job and the highest pay. A conviction of this nature could compromise a person’s chances and may lead to the loss in tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars and earning potential over the course of someone’s lifetime.

Difference Between a DUI Arrest and a DUI Conviction

The word “record” may be a relative term. Record, in the most remedial sense, means recorded. If a person files for custody, bankruptcy, or foreclosure, or sues somebody, there is typically a record of it since it has been recorded in the case number. If the person is charged, there is typically a record since it has a case number. With a criminal record, understanding what the person was convicted and found guilty of might be crucial. An individual that was simply charged will not have a criminal record unless they already have one from a previous conviction. If they are convicted, they have a criminal record, which has the most consequences.

Do Employers in PG County Frequently Run Background Checks?

All prospective employers in PG County typically conduct a background check for any employee hired. This may also be true for remedial jobs that might not require security clearances or any professional licenses. Such jobs may include cooks or cashiers. While a person mopping floors might not need a professional license, they could have a background check done when they look for an employer. If someone is already employed, employers could still do periodic background checks and convictions may be found. Smaller businesses or establishments that do not require any type of security clearance or financial matters may not take such actions.

Opportunities to Explain a Criminal Record

In Prince George’s County, when considering how a DUI may affect employment, specific employers may give individuals the opportunity to explain their record. Potential employees may be required to fill out a questionnaire that asks if they have you ever been convicted of a crime. This may include a serious traffic offense like a DUI. An individual could be required to answer a simple yes or no or may have an opportunity to write an explanation. Individuals may be able to explain the conviction in an interview. There is typically no guarantee for a chance to explain a conviction. If there is a job posting where there are 200 applicants, there may not be given the time to explain themselves.

Reach Out to a Prince George’s County DUI Attorney

A court record typically lasts for life. Convictions can lead to a loss of hundreds of thousands of dollars in earning potential over the course of a lifetime. A DUI lawyer could help you understand how a DUI affects employment in Prince George’s County and what your legal options may be.